Rio Hondo College Talks Hit Impasse

Administrators and teachers at Rio Hondo College have reached an impasse in their contract negotiations, mostly because of disagreements over salary, and have requested that the state send in a mediator to help solve the differences.

The talks, which had been going on since last spring, are expected to resume when a negotiator is assigned in two weeks. Meanwhile, the teachers are continuing to work under the terms of their old three-year contract, which expired in July.

Officials from both sides say they expect to solve the disagreements without a strike.

"Things are extremely amicable right now," said college spokeswoman Pam Cox, adding that outside mediators often have been called upon to help solve contract disputes.

The teachers are requesting an immediate 12% raise and an 18% salary increase over the next two years. College administrators are offering an immediate 6.5% increase and a 12% increase over the next two years.